Florida's population is growing a bit faster than during the recession but still at a modest pace compared to past decades, a preliminary report from the University of Florida indicates. Florida's population grew by 184,300 people, or almost 1 percent, in the past year, UF's Bureau of Economic and Business Research reported Monday. More at the Tampa Bay Times and The Bureau of Economic and Business Research.

Sales and Marketing Advice for Florida business Three ways to help your sales reps -- and your company -- make more money

It’s time to kick your revenue into high gear and adding sales people could be the ticket. It seems reasonable. Extra feet on the street and voices on the phone, touching more prospects, will result in more sales. Right? The short answer is, maybe or maybe not. Read Ron Stein's full column.

Keys lobster fishermen drop traps for commercial season

Business Profile

CNG in Florida: Saddle Creek Logistics is ahead of the curve

In Lakeland, Saddle Creek Logistics Services, which stores, services and distributes a variety of goods, is a national leader in transitioning trucking fleets to CNG. President Mike DelBovo says the privately owned company spent more than $25 million in 2012 and plans to spend another $20 million this year on fleet conversion and fueling infrastructure.

Throughout the Florida Keys and at a few other locations in the state, the crews of hundreds of commercial boats dropped nearly a half million licensed traps into the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico in preparation for the start of the 2013-14 season, which begins Tuesday. The fishermen all hope for the same thing: no hurricanes, lots of lobsters and high prices. More at the Miami Herald.

Small Business Advice A good business name conveys what you do

A business name is important because it communicates what the business does and how it can help its customers. It represents in words what you do, and it must be vetted very carefully to ensure it says the right thing. Read more from Dr. Jerry Osteryoung.

Florida theme parks try out discounted weekday admissions

Ski resorts have discounted weekday tickets to boost business on slow days for years. For the most part, though, theme parks have been reluctant to use the strategy, mainly out of fear of devaluing their product. As of August 1, however, two sister parks in Florida—SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa—are selling weekday admissions tickets for $50 apiece. More at TIME.

Out of the Box DanceSport

The ballroom competition once known as "The Breakers" — after the Palm Beach hotel where it was held for many years — had its heyday in the '80s, when it drew large fields, international visitors and SRO audiences. This year's edition of the event now known as the Florida State Dancesport Championships was a smaller affair, with professional competitors mostly from Florida and of widely ranging ability.